Black History Month is underway in Chatham-Kent, providing an opportunity to recognize the rich history and achievements of Black Canadians.
The celebrations kicked off with a flag-raising ceremony at the Civic Centre Friday afternoon.
Josh Shreve, Executive Director and Curator of the Chatham-Kent Black Historical Society and Black Mecca Museum says the goal is to keep stories alive for descendants of freedom seekers and all residents of Chatham-Kent.
“It’s important to keep these stories going because we’re the ones who are going to give it on to the [next] generation, and they’ll give it to the people after that, and after that. It’s important to not break that chain and make sure the histories aren’t forgotten, the families aren’t forgotten, and the stories aren’t forgotten.”
Shreve says everyone can benefit from visiting a black historical site in Chatham-Kent.
“Approach everything you can with as open of a mind as possible. Come to these sites and see what the chain of events is, the story, the history. If you go into any of these sites with an open mind and an eagerness to learn, you will get the absolute most out of the experience.”
A number of events will be held throughout the month of February, including hands-on activities at local libraries, a guided tour of the Josiah Henson Museum of African Canadian History in Dresden on February 16, a virtual trivia night on February 18, and a celebration of music at the Jazzbah in downtown Chatham on the 22nd.
Black stories will take to the big screen at the Chatham Capitol Theatre throughout the month with screenings of films such as “Harriet,” “42: The Jackie Robinson Story,” The Princess and the Frog,” and “Selma.”
Local historical displays have been set up at the Chatham Civic Centre and Dresden Municipal Centre.
Black History Month dates back to 1926 in the United States, as a way to honour the accomplishments of African Americans and heighten awareness of Black History.
Celebrations of Black History in Canada followed shortly after, however, the House of Commons did not officially recognize February as Black History Month until December, 1995.
CLICK HERE to find out more about local Black Historical Sites in Chatham-Kent and events taking place throughout Black History Month.
